Patty Melts with Secret Sauce Recipe

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a classic diner favorite, combining juicy burger patties, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a flavorful secret sauce all sandwiched between slices of perfectly toasted bread. The combination of savory beef, creamy sauce, and crispy, buttery bread makes this dish an irresistible comfort food. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, and it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Patty Melts
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Patties

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Caramelized Onions

• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Secret Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

For the Patty Melts

• 8 slices of rye bread (or sourdough, if preferred)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 8 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, if preferred)

Instructions

Prepare the Caramelized Onions

1. Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and salt, stirring to coat the onions in the butter and oil. Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized. Lower the heat if they start to brown too quickly. Once caramelized, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Secret Sauce

2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until smooth. Set aside.

Prepare the Patties

3. Form the Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape each into a thin patty, roughly the same size as the slices of bread. Season both sides of the patties with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Cook the Patties: In the same skillet used for the onions, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Assemble the Patty Melts

5. Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
6. Layer the Ingredients: Place 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Spread a layer of secret sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice. Top each with a slice of cheese, a cooked patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Place the remaining slices of bread on top, buttered side up.

Cook the Patty Melts

7. Toast the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the patty melts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Press down lightly with a spatula while cooking to ensure even toasting.
8. Serve: Slice the patty melts in half and serve immediately with extra secret sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Patty Melts

• Low and Slow for Onions: Caramelizing onions takes time, so be patient and cook them over medium-low heat for the best flavor.
• Use Good Quality Bread: Rye bread is traditional for patty melts, but you can use sourdough or even Texas toast for a different twist.
• Thin Patties Work Best: Thin patties cook quickly and fit well between the slices of bread without making the sandwich too bulky.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Patty Melt: Add sliced jalapeños to the sandwich and a dash of hot sauce to the secret sauce for a spicy kick.
• Mushroom Swiss Patty Melt: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.
• Bacon Patty Melt: Add crispy bacon strips for an even more indulgent version.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the onions ahead of time?
A: Yes! Caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet before using.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Swiss cheese is traditional, but cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack would work well.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fries: Serve patty melts with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a classic diner experience.
• With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a lighter meal.
• With Pickles: Add a few dill pickles on the side for a tangy contrast to the richness of the patty melt.

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a delicious blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a comforting meal. The combination of juicy beef, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and tangy secret sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a classic diner-style meal, this patty melt recipe is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy the perfect combination of savory, cheesy goodness!